Warm Butternut Squash Soup
A cozy and comforting warm butternut squash soup that brings moments of connection and delight with its velvety texture and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium butternut squash You can swap with other squash varieties like pumpkin or acorn squash.
- 1 onion Yellow onions work best, but shallots can be substituted.
- 3 cloves garlic Feel free to use garlic powder in a pinch.
Liquid Base
- 4 cups vegetable broth Chicken broth can be an option for non-vegetarians.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger Substitute with fresh ginger for a zestier kick.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Experiment with nutmeg or allspice for a twist.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasoning to enhance flavors.
Cooking Fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Optional Creaminess
- Cream or coconut milk Stir in for creaminess for a richer texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and peel the skin off. Cut the flesh into cubes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Sautéing
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking the Squash
- Add the butternut squash to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes to start softening.
Adding Spices
- Sprinkle in the ground ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, mixing well with the vegetables.
Simmering
- Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.
Blending
- Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
- Alternatively, carefully transfer it in batches to a countertop blender.
Finishing Touches
- If desired, stir in cream or coconut milk for added richness. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serving
- Enjoy your warm butternut squash soup topped with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds.
Notes
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Blend in spinach or kale for extra nutrients. For brightness, add a splash of orange juice or zest. Top with croutons or herbs for added texture.